10 best long-distance moving companies in Lake in the Hills, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in important ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help ease your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Lake in the Hills to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to note. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the time needed for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lake in the Hills

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Lake in the Hills.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Lake in the Hills and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients say about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Lake in the Hills also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, hire your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

Illinois Office of the Secretary of State U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration